Youth Programs

ADF Cadets

The ADFCadets offer Indigenous Australian youth the chance to experience what life is like in the Navy, Army or Air Force while taking part in adventure training and personal development programs. Currently there are Indigenous Cadet Units in Bamaga, Wadeye, Tiwi Island, Daly River and Thursday Island and they have strong links to NORFORCE, the 51 FNQR and the Pilbara Regiment. Being in the cadets will improve your leadership qualities, give you the chance to promote your individual culture and develop an even stronger sense of community. It's also lots of fun! Further information...

Defence Work Experience Program

Defence is committed to providing a national work experience program designed to:

Contribute to the development of the skills of young people;

Ease transition of students into the workplace; and

Demonstrate the wide variety of interesting careers available in Defence.

The Defence work experience program offers unpaid work experience for students residing in Australia. Further information...

ADF Gap Year

Gap Year gives young Australians the chance to experience an exciting and rewarding role with the Australian Defence Force between high school and higher education. Those chosen for the program learn practical and leadership skills, enjoy a healthy and varied lifestyle, and make friends for life - while getting paid. Further information...